Regional Australians spend an average of $5,770 per holiday — $286 more than metro travellers — and stay around 10 nights compared to nine for city residents, according to a travel insights study commissioned by media collective Boomtown.
The study found 81% of regional Australians are planning a domestic trip, with 47% more likely to take road trips and 22% caravan or camping adventures.
One in three regional travellers are not in a loyalty program and just 17% use AI to plan travel.
"It's clear that regional Australians are seeking out opportunities to travel for relaxation, to spend quality time with their family and to experience something new," said Laura Allen, research and insights director at Australian Regional Insights.
"The data shows that domestic travel is top-of-mind for regional Australians in 2026, and with 145 different national destinations making the list of places to explore, it is driving dispersion and demand beyond the usual hot spots."
Regional travellers also favour local spending, with 72% planning to spend with local businesses compared to 56% of metro travellers.
The study describes 2026 as the "year of two trips" for regional Australians, who plan at least two holidays focused on escape, relaxation and family time.
"This new research shows that regional media offers a prime opportunity for inspiration and planning for Boomtown travellers," said Francesca Ryan, marketing lead at Boomtown.
"The data also shows one in three regional travellers aren't in a loyalty program and just 17% use AI to plan travel, creating white space for brands to win early."
The research was conducted by Australian Regional Insights between September 15 and October 2, 2025.
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